The proposed Highgate and Muswell Hill eruv has taken a major step forward after gaining planning approval from Haringey Council.

The Shabbat boundary, inside which observant Jews can push prams and carry objects, has already received the go-ahead from Barnet and Camden councils.

It now requires the green light from one more local authority, Islington.

The eruv would cover the Muswell Hill and Highgate United shuls, linking up with neighbouring eruvs.

Since the launch of the pioneering North-West London eruv 20 years ago, a further 12 eruvim have been established under the auspices of the United Synagogue and the London Beth Din.

Highgate Synagogue’s Rabbi Nicky Liss said the proposed eruv has been many years in the pipeline. “There were a couple of technical halachic difficulties we had to resolve. Then Covid slowed down everything.”

One feature of the eruv, he added, would be its inclusion of the Whittington Hospital, making it easier for families to visit patients on Shabbat.